Getting Rid of Bugs

Guest Author - Aimee Wood

Summer is upon us and that means more time outside enjoying nature. Bugs can be quite the nuisance, though. Here you will find tips to keep them away and first aid remedies to help heal those bites. Many of these remedies involve essential oils, please be sure to research which oils are safe around children.

Mosquitos like damp and moist areas. Make sure you get rid of any standing water in your yard that could attract them. From a landscaping point of view, plant lavender and geranium around your house to keep mosquitoes away. Mosquitos dislike citronella, cloves, eucalyptus, geranium, and lavender. For a body spray, mix 20 drops of citronella, 10 drops of eucalyptus, and 5 drops of lemon and mix that in two cups of water.

Flies are annoying, buzzing in your ears and some flies even leave nasty bites. Spiders dislike the same plants. Plant bay, rosemary, mint and lavender plants around the perimeter of your house. For an easy spray, mix 20-25 drops of mint essential oil to one cup of water.

Ants seem to be especially problematic this year. They can get into your cupboards and ruin food. They hate cinnamon, garlic, and mint. You can liberally sprinkle cinnamon around outside entrances or use one of the mint sprays mentioned above.

Ticks are a health issue that are not to mess with. Ticks carry many diseases including Lyme disease which can be quite debilitating. A good tick spray includes 20-30 drops of lemongrass, 20 drops of eucalyptus with 4-6 ounces of water. Check yourself each day for ticks. If you see a tick remove it immediately. If you have any symptoms of Lyme disease, see a health professional. Antibiotic treatment is a must in this situation.

Mice aren't considered a bug, of course, but they can create a nuisance in your home. Cotton balls with peppermint essential oil will really deter them. Also, plant peppermint in your yard to prevent them from even coming in your house.

Bug bites happen even when we take preventative measures. If you have been bitten try one of these home remedies. Apply a dab of honey on the bite. Honey is a natural antibacterial and will soothe the inflammation. Rub a basil leaf on the bite. Basil has anti inflammatory properties. The same essential oils that you used to prevent the bites can be used to heal them. Try tea tree, lavender, and coconut oil as a salve. Cool tea bags reduce the itch and swelling.

Let's hope you stay bug free this summer. Essential oils are a great natural remedy to use. Even if you are bit, there are great natural remedies to soothe the pain. Enjoy summer!